Stainless Steel Flat Washer Frequently Asked Questions
Below are answers to some of the most common questions about stainless steel flat washers.
What are stainless steel flat washers?
Stainless steel flat washers are manufactured from austenitic stainless steel, most commonly Type 301, Type 302, or Type 304. These alloys offer excellent corrosion resistance in most environments, good mechanical strength, and are non-magnetic in the annealed condition. Stainless steel washers are the most widely used corrosion-resistant metal washers across industrial, food service, marine, and architectural applications.
What is the difference between 301, 302, and 304 stainless steel washers?
Type 301, Type 302, and Type 304 are all austenitic stainless steels with similar corrosion resistance and mechanical properties. Type 301 offers higher strength and work-hardening characteristics, making it useful in spring and formed applications. Type 302 and Type 304 are nearly identical, with the primary difference being carbon content: 304 has a lower maximum carbon content (0.08% vs. 0.15% for 302), which provides slightly better weld corrosion resistance. For most washer applications, all three grades perform reliably.
When should I use stainless steel washers instead of zinc-plated steel?
Stainless steel provides inherent corrosion resistance that does not depend on a coating. Zinc-plated steel washers will corrode if the zinc coating is scratched, worn, or exposed to chlorides. For outdoor, marine, food service, pharmaceutical, or long-term corrosion resistance requirements, stainless steel is the better choice.
Can you make custom stainless steel flat washers?
Yes. Superior Washer manufactures custom stainless steel washers to your OD, ID, and thickness specifications. Contact us via the Quick Quote form or by phone.
Are your stainless steel flat washers made in the USA?
Yes. All stainless steel flat washers are manufactured in the United States under our ISO 9001:2015 certified Quality Management System. Material certifications are available upon request.
Stainless steel is one of our most popular corrosion-resistant materials. Browse the full flat washers catalog to see everything we offer.